Construction: building a talent pipeline

Paul Dancer, Director of Learning and Skills at North Warwickshire & Hinckley College discusses why Apprenticeships are key to developing talent within the Construction sector.

“Even in times of political uncertainty, the UK Construction Industry has continued to thrive. According to a report released by the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board), output in the West Midlands forecast to grow at an average rate of 1.3% per year from now until 2021.

“Employment within the sector is growing too – the annual average recruitment requirement in the region is estimated to be 2,800 in the next five years.

“The report also highlights that a number of specialist areas including logistics, interior fitting, wood and electrical trades are due to experience high demand.

“In order to meet this demand it is vital that we develop a strong pipeline of talent. As a training provider, we believe that Apprenticeships are the ideal way to do this. They allow employers to effectively ‘grow their own,’ and address specific skills needs.

“Working as a paid employee whilst gaining their qualification means that by the time they finish their programme, Apprentices are in tune with the organisation’s culture, they have in-depth knowledge of their job role and can work effectively in fast-paced, practical environments.

“This develops strong employer-Apprentice relationships and can lead to an extremely loyal workforce. According to the National Apprenticeship Service, over 70% of Apprentices stay with the same employer once they complete their programme.

“High quality off-the job training is also vital. “Our Training Centre located in Harrowbrook Industrial Estate in Hinckley, houses a forklift training centre including maintenance and repair and driver training, construction workshop, carpentry and brickwork areas. The centre is specially designed to replicate industry environments to ensure Apprentices receive the most relevant and up-to-date training.

“With many years’ experience of working with organisations in the Construction sector, we encourage anyone considering an Apprenticeship programme to get in touch today.

Apprentices can be current employees or new recruits and programmes are available for those 16-18, 19+ and 24+. To find out more about employing Apprentices, including the College’s free recruitment service, call 024 7624 3000 or email business.development@nwhc.ac.uk